1. Regular age and sex-dependent labs, mammograms, coronary and carotid artery calcium screenings, dexascans, indicated ultrasounds, paps, breast and prostate exams, and x-rays are recommended. The focus of my practice is prevention and anti-ageing. Body chemistry DOES NOT LIE! We might not listen to what our body is telling us, but the most objective evaluation of what is going on inside of us is our chemistry. However, the interpretation of these labs is very significant. This is where all of you, my patients, get my expertise in the area of disease, and disease prevention and anti-ageing.

2. Supplements. No, they are not all created equal. We carry a few very specific, premier quality, highly effective clinically, non-contaminated supplements. These supplements are biochemically active, which means they cause physiological changes in the body. This is the purpose of taking a supplement. If a supplement is prescribed, the desired effect should be manifested. Not everyone needs to have this clinically desired effect. This is why all supplements should be individually dosed and prescribed. In some cases, there may be interactions between supplements and medications. These reactions may in fact be dangerous to one’s health. As a patient of this clinic you will have the expertise of my training and clinical experience in the prescribing and dosing of all natural medicines, which includes supplements, hormones, drugs and herbs.

3. Regular exercise. There isn’t an exercise that is the best for every body. My rule is “GET UP AND MOVE”. For some this is walking, others dancing, biking, hiking, skiing, running, and/or yoga. There are so many benefits of exercise; thousands of books have been written on the subject. Another recommendation is “CHANGE IT UP”. For the first time in my life, I am trying Pilates. I love it. It is very different than anything I have done. Here’s the thing….doing the same thing over and over again can get boring. Also, to keep motivated, exercise with a friend, or co-worker, or partner. Be held accountable.

4. Sleep. For years I was always envious of people who said they could get along on 4 or 5 hours of sleep per night. They seemed to be so productive. Even as a college student, I recall sleeping a lot, especially on winter breaks. Looking back, I am so glad I listened to my body (and my mom) and took the time to sleep. Research has shown study after study quality and quantity sleep is extremely important in disease prevention and overall health and wellness. If you are not getting a minimum 7-8 hours of quality sleep, come in and see me. There may be a metabolic or other reason for your inability to get those quality and oh so important ZZZZZZ’s.

5. Food. There is a saying “Let food be thy medicine and medicine thy food.” This has been proven again and again clinically. Buy organic, unprocessed foods. Start with quality organic, hormone-free protein, organic whole grains, fruit and vegetables. If finances play a role, cut back the alcohol, snacks, and sweets. Please do not compromise your health with buying inexpensive fast food. For those of you who need help in this area, call my office and make an appointment.

6. Prescription drugs. For many this area is very difficult to personally evaluate. If you would like to have me evaluate your prescription drugs with respect to cost and/or other options, please call for an appointment. In some cases, generic drugs are OK. In some, not. The rule is not to discontinue prescribed drugs without the prescribing physician’s permission. These include bio-identical hormones, testosterone, thyroid and blood pressure medications.

7. Meditation, quiet time, prayer. It is very important for all of us to de-stress by doing nothing. I know, I can already hear many of you say, “The day isn’t long enough to even get my to-do list done, let alone schedule some quiet time.” Folks, it is because we are human BEINGS not human DOINGS that we need to learn to JUST BE!!!!! It is in these moments when we consciously connect our mind, body and spirit. Start with one minute per day and just breathe. Yes, time it if you have to. Trust me; you will yearn for more time with yourself. Work up to five minutes/day.

8. Make time for family and friends. Eliminate if you have to obligatory automatic and joyless activities if it takes away from you being and doing things with those you love and hold most dear. Within this last year a number of clinic patients have been diagnosed with some form of cancer. The prognosis varies, however, a few have a very short time to live. I learn many things in being with these patients. Mostly, to live each day prioritizing the people who matter and are important, and of living a daily life of no regrets. Ask yourself, if you knew when you were going to die, what would you be doing now, today, this week, this month, this year. Re-evaluate the path you are on, and make any changes you feel are mandatory in your living a healthy rewarding life.

9. Give back. It seems there is no end to the opportunity to give back. Volunteer, donate, and/or give money. There are truly blessings in helping those who need help.